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Blood loss and side effects in day case abortion
British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|November 1, 1981
Summary
This study compared three agents for suction termination of pregnancy. Ergometrine led to more nausea, vomiting, and pain than oxytocin or sterile water, with no significant difference in blood loss.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Surgical Procedures
Background:
- Suction termination of pregnancy is a common outpatient procedure.
- Anesthesia induction agents may influence patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of ergometrine, oxytocin, and sterile water during suction termination of pregnancy.
- To evaluate blood loss and adverse effects associated with each agent.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 276 patients undergoing outpatient suction termination of pregnancy under general anesthesia.
- Administration of ergometrine, oxytocin, or sterile water during anesthesia induction.
- Monitoring of blood loss and recording of adverse events like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in blood loss was observed between the ergometrine, oxytocin, and sterile water groups.
- Increased blood loss occurred in all groups for terminations performed after eight weeks of gestation.
- Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain were significantly more frequent following ergometrine administration compared to oxytocin or sterile water.
Conclusions:
- Ergometrine is associated with increased gastrointestinal and pain-related side effects compared to oxytocin or sterile water during suction termination of pregnancy.
- The choice of induction agent does not significantly impact blood loss in this procedure.
- Gestational age beyond eight weeks is a factor associated with increased blood loss.